UK Visas for Thai Citizens 2024 Fees & Requirements in ThailandThis essential guide pertains to UK visa application fees and entry requirements from Thailand. The cost for a 6-month tourist visa (London or England) in 2024 is US$145. The UK visa for Thai girlfriend cost for visit application is also US$145. UK visa fee Thailand for student and spouse visa is US$619 and US$2,332, respectively. The priority service fee for visit, student, and work visas is US$632. Typically, the UK visa processing time after biometric submission in Thailand for these categories is around 3 weeks, streamlining travel plans effectively.
Table of Contents
1. Overview: UK Visa from Thailand 2024
Thai Citizens looking to visit, work, or study in the UK must apply for the appropriate visa. The requirements vary depending on the type of visa application.
How much is UK Visa Fee in Thailand?
The cost of a UK visa for Thai Citizens depends on the visa type. For instance, tourist, student, and spouse visas are priced at US$145, US$619, and US$2,332, respectively.
How Long is UK Visa Processing in Thailand?
- Standard processing for non-settlement visas (tourist, study, work) from Thailand is typically around 3 weeks. Priority service reduces this to 5 working days for an additional US$632.
- Settlement visas (spouse, partner, family) from Thailand usually take up to 12 weeks post-biometrics. A 6-week processing option is available for these visas with priority service, costing an extra US$632.
- Super-priority service, offering next-working-day processing, costs US$1,263.
How much does it cost to travel to UK from Thailand?
To travel from Thailand to the UK, you may need a minimum of $1,750 USD for a 7-15 day trip per person. Thai couples can expect to pay between $3,500 and $10,500 USD, with the only shared cost being accommodation. For a Thai family of four, estimated expenses can range from $7,000 to $21,000 USD, factoring in individual flight and visa fees and potentially shared accommodation.
How long can Thai Citizens stay in the UK?
Visitor visas allow Thai Citizens a stay of up to 180 days per visit in the UK.
For spouse, student, and work visas, the duration of stay aligns with the visa validity.
Extensions for these visas are possible by fulfilling leave to remain (LTR) requirements.
Routes like Skilled Worker and Innovator visas may lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which can further lead to naturalization and British citizenship.
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2. UK Visitor Visa for Thai National 2024
Thai citizens are required to apply for a visa to travel to the United Kingdom. The only exception to this rule is for those holding dual citizenship with visa-exempt countries such as the USA, Australia, New Zealand, or the EU Member States.
Standard Visitor Visa UK for Thai National
The standard visitor visa is a versatile option that allows Thai nationals to engage in tourism, family visits, business-related activities, and even short-term studies. Before applying, it’s important to be familiar with the eligibility criteria.
Essential Criteria: UK Visitor Visa from Thailand
The UK immigration authorities examine multiple aspects such as the clarity of the visit purpose, financial stability, accommodation plans, and compelling evidence of intended departure back to Thailand.
For the year ending September 2022, out of 42,413 visa applications resolved for Thai nationals, 39,884 were granted, while 2,058 were rejected. The success and refusal rates stood at 94.04% and 4.85%, respectively.
UK Visa Fee Thailand for Visitors
In 2024, the UK visa application fees from Thailand are categorized as follows: US$145 for a 6-month visa, US$505 for a 2-year visa, US$974 for a 5-year visa, and US$1,217 for a 10-year visa. All these visa categories limit your stay to a maximum of 180 days per visit.
Thai applicants typically experience a visitor visa processing period of about three weeks. They have the option of one-week priority processing at US$632, or super priority service for the next working day at US$1,263.
UK Tourist Visa for Thai Citizen
Applying for a UK tourist visa entails a multi-step process that starts with filling out the online application form. Payment of the visa fee (US$145) and submission of biometric data at a visa application center are the subsequent steps. Thai nationals must also provide certain supporting documents.
Required Documentation for UK Tourist Visa from Thailand
- Proof of intent to return to Thailand, backed by employment contracts or educational enrollments
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- A detailed travel itinerary and proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations
Show Money for UK Tourist Visa from Thailand
Applicants must demonstrate adequate funds, typically between GBP 3,000-5,000, to cover all travel, accommodation, and living expenses during their UK stay.
The required amount increases with the number of travelers. For example, a single traveler might need a bank balance exceeding GBP 3,000 for a one-week trip costing an estimated GBP 1,800.
Can My Thai Girlfriend Visit Me in the UK?
Your Thai girlfriend would require a Standard UK Visitor Visa. The process includes an online application, visa fee payment, and an appointment for biometric data and document submission.
Other UK Visitor Visas from Thailand
Here’s the information on other UK visitor visas available for Thai citizens, formatted in a two-column table:
| Visa Type for Thai Citizens | UK Visa Cost Thailand 2024 |
|---|---|
| Marriage Visitor Visa: For marrying or forming a civil partnership in the UK. Duration: Up to 180 days. | US$145 |
| Private Medical Treatment Visa: For private medical treatment in the UK lasting 6-11 months. Note: Attendants must apply separately. | US$253 |
| Visiting Academics: For Thai academic professionals engaging in research or educational exchanges for up to 12 months. | US$253 |
| Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE): For short-term paid tasks like lecturing or assessing, available for up to 30 days. | US$145 |
| Parent of Child Student Visa: For parents of children in fee-paying day schools in the UK. Duration: 12 months. | US$805 |
| Transit Visas for Thai Citizens: For brief stops in the UK while transiting to another country. Includes Airside Transit and Visitor in Transit visas. | Airside Transit: US$44 Visitor in Transit: US$81 |
3. UK Student Visa Requirements for Thai Citizens
The UK Student Visa permits Thai citizens to pursue a range of educational opportunities in the UK, from higher education to Student Union roles.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 4,611 Thais applied for student visa UK. 4,645 applications resolved, 4,617 student visas granted to Thais, and 13 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK student visa success and refusal rate for Thais are 99.40% and 0.28%, respectively.
UK Student Visa Fees for Thai Nationals
The fee for the UK Student Visa is set at US$619, with an expected processing period of 3 weeks. There’s an option for expedited processing at an additional cost of US$632. Plus, students need to pay the Immigration Health Charge (IHS) annually, which is £624.
Short-term English Language Visa
The short-term study visa is designed for Thai Nationals studying English in the UK for 6-11 months, costing US$253. A 6-month course costs US$145.
Work Rights for Thai Students
- Degree-level course students are permitted to work 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks.
- For sub-degree level courses, the limit is 10 hours per week.
- Dependents of degree-level students can work; however, those of sub-degree students cannot.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Thai graduates can avail a 2-year post-study work visa. PhD holders can get a 3-year visa.
4. Family Visas for the UK from Thailand 2024
The UK Family Visa under Appendix FM allows citizens to join family members who are either settled in the UK or British citizens. Categories range from spouse visas to adult dependent relatives and parent of a British child visas.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 957 Thais applied for family settlement visa UK. 633 applications resolved, 588 family settlement visas granted to Thais, and 40 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK family (spouse) settlement visa success and refusal rate from Thailand are 92.89% and 6.32%, respectively.
Spouse or Partner Visa UK for Thai Citizens
- Eligibility: Thai applicants must satisfy the stipulations in Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules, including proving a genuine relationship, demonstrating financial stability, having secure housing, and English language proficiency.
- Validity & Extensions: The spouse visa is initially issued for a period of 33 months and can be extended after 30 months. Applicants are eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after a continuous period of five years.
- Cost: The standard fee for Thai citizens is US$2,332, with an additional option of expedited processing available at a cost of US$632.
Other Family Visas
| Visa Type and Details for Thai Citizens | UK Visa Cost Thailand 2024 |
|---|---|
| Fiancé(e) Visa: For those planning to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK. Valid for 6 months; can switch to a spouse or civil partner visa post-marriage/partnership. | US$2,332 |
| Parent of a British Child Visa: For those with sole guardianship of a British child. | US$2,332 |
| Adult Dependent Relative Visa: For those needing extended care from a UK relative. | US$4,106 |
| Returning Residents Visa: For Thai citizens who were previously settled in the UK and wish to return. | US$805 |
5. UK Work Visa for Thai Citizens 2024
The primary route for Thai Citizens seeking UK employment is through the Skilled Worker Visa. Other options include visas like Innovator, Startup, Global Business Mobility, and Health and Care Worker.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 619 Thais applied for work visa UK. 606 applications resolved, 571 work visas granted to Thai nationals, and 30 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK work visa success and refusal rate from Thailand are 94.22% and 4.95%, respectively.
Skilled Worker Visa UK from Thailand
Thai Citizens can work in the UK under the Skilled Worker Visa. This visa is for those sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor for specific skilled roles. It offers a path to permanent UK settlement. The cost of the UK work visa for Thai National in 2024 stands at US$908 for up to three years and US$1,794 for longer durations.
The Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation) Visa fees in Thailand is US$696 for up to three years and US$1,370 for durations longer than three years.
Health and Care Work Visa UK from Thailand
This visa is specifically designed for qualified doctors, nurses, or allied health professionals from the Thailand who are sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor. It also provides a route to permanent UK settlement. The UK Work Visa for Thai National cost for this category in 2024 is US$359 for up to three years and US$696 for more extended periods.
Global Business Mobility Visa to UK for Thai Citizens
An outline of the UK work visas available for Thai citizens under the Global Business Mobility category, along with their fees as of 2024.
| Visa Type for Thai Citizens | UK Visa Cost Thailand 2024 |
|---|---|
| Senior or Specialist Worker Visa: For high-level Thai managers or specialists transferring to a UK branch. (Up to three years) | US$908 |
| Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (More than three years) | US$1,794 |
| Graduate Trainee Visa: For those in graduate training programs leading to specialist roles in the UK. | US$377 |
| UK Expansion Worker Visa: For specialists or senior personnel aiming to expand a business into the UK. | US$377 |
| Service Supplier Visa: For professionals providing services under UK trade agreements. | US$377 |
| Secondment Worker Visa: For Thai nationals seconded to the UK for contracts or investment projects. | US$377 |
Quick Guide to Other Work and Business Visas
Below is a brief overview of various UK visa categories along with their associated fees for Thai Citizens looking to work or do business in the UK.
| Visa Type for Thai Citizens | UK Visa Cost Thailand 2024 |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Visa: For starting an innovative business in the UK. | US$550 |
| Innovator Visa: For innovative, viable, and scalable businesses. Requires endorsement, £50,000 investment, B2 IELTS level. | US$1,505 |
| Innovator Founder Visa : For Thai entrepreneurs. Includes endorsement and application fees. | Endorsement: US$1,263 Application: US$1,505 |
| Investor Visa: For high-value investments in the UK. | US$2,380 |
| High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa: For graduates from top-50 global universities seeking employment in the UK. | US$1,039 |
| Scale-Up Visa: For job offers from UK scale-up companies. Leads to potential UK settlement after 5 years. | US$1,039 |
| Global Talent Visa: For leaders in various fields. Fees vary based on application type. | Approval: US$662 Main Applicnat with Letter: US$243 Without Letter and Dependents: US$905 |
| T2 Minister of Religion Visa: For preaching and pastoral work. | US$908 |
| International Sportsperson Visa: For elite sportspersons or coaches. Fee varies based on COS duration. | Up to 12 months COS: US$377 Over 12 months COS: US$908 |
| T5 (Temporary Worker) Visa: For various sectors like seasonal, religious, or creative industries. | US$377 |
6. UK Visa for Thai Girlfriend 2024
The UK offers different types of visas depending on your intent. For a Thai girlfriend visiting for tourism, the relevant option is a Standard Visitor Visa. For marital intentions, the Marriage Visitor Visa UK is required. If planning to settle in the UK, a Fiancée or Spouse Visa is applicable.
UK Visa for Thai girlfriend Cost
The UK visa for Thai girlfriend cost varies by application type. For a 6-month visit application, UK visa for Thai girlfriend cost is US$145. For a spouse application, UK visa fee Thailand is US$2,332.
Can my Thai girlfriend come to the UK for a holiday?
Yes, but she must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa. The assessment will be based on:
- Purpose of Visit: Clearly state tourism as the intent.
- Financial Stability: Prove financial self-sufficiency.
- Return Assurance: Confirm plans to leave the UK after the visit.
Can my Thai girlfriend work in the UK?
For employment, a Skilled Worker Visa is needed, which requires a job offer from a UK employer.
I want to marry my Thai girlfriend in the UK
If you intend to marry, she should apply for either a Marriage Visitor Visa or a Fiancée Visa, based on whether she plans to stay in the UK post-marriage or not.
UK Visa Invitation Letter for Girlfriend
[Your Full Name]
[Your Full Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
[UK Visa Application Centre Address]
To Whom It May Concern,
Re: Invitation Letter for [Girlfriend’s Full Name], Passport No: XXXXXXX
This letter serves to verify my invitation to my girlfriend, [Girlfriend’s Full Name], to join me in the UK for a period of [length of the visit, e.g., 2 weeks] with the aim to [purpose, e.g., spend holidays and engage in tourist activities]. She will be accommodated at my residence throughout her visit. Professionally, I am a [Your Occupation], and I am a [Your Nationality] citizen.
Our relationship has been authentic and strong for [length of your relationship, e.g., 2 years]. My financial stability is assured, with an annual salary of [Your Salary], enabling me to fully support and provide for her during her time in the UK.
Accommodation:
[Girlfriend’s Full Name] will be staying at my residence located at [Your Full Address].
Financial Support:
All financial obligations for her stay, such as return flight tickets, in-country travel, accommodation, and day-to-day expenditures, will be fully borne by me.
Sponsorship Documents:
I am providing the following documents to support this invitation:
- Photocopy of my passport and UK residence permit.
- Bank statements for the last 3 months.
- Proof of address (utility bill or lease agreement).
- Return flight booking confirmation for [Girlfriend’s Full Name].
Her travel details are as follows:
- Arrival: [Arrival Date]
- Departure: [Departure Date]
- Flight: [Flight details]
I earnestly request you to grant her the necessary visa to visit me in the United Kingdom.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Full Name]
7. How to Apply for UK Visa from Thailand?
A comprehensive guide tailored for Thai nationals outlining the steps to apply for a UK visa. Follow this guide from determining your visa type to getting ready for your UK trip. Note: The estimated cost is based on a UK visitor visa, and priority service could shorten the process to 15 working days from 30.
Total Time: 30 days
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Determine the Visa Type
Firstly, ascertain the specific visa category that aligns with your reason for traveling from Thailand to the UK.
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Create an Online Account
Log onto the official UK visas and immigration website and establish an account with UK Visas and Immigration.
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Fill Out the Application Form
Thai nationals need to carefully complete the relevant online application form, making certain that every detail aligns with their provided supporting documents.
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Pay the Application Fee
Thai applicants will be guided by the UKVI online system to the secure payment gateway to finalize their application fee payment after completing the UK visa application form.
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Assemble Your Supporting Documents
Depending on the type of visa, collect key documents such as your Thai passport, proof of financial status, and UK accommodation details.
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Schedule a VAC Appointment in Thailand
Thai nationals are not qualified to use the Immigration App for identity verification. As a result, it’s vital to book an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (UKVAC) in Thailand.
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Attend the VAC Appointment
Attend the nearest UKVAC with your complete set of supporting documents and fulfill the biometric verification as specified in your appointment guidelines.
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Await Visa Decision
After you submit your UK visa application, it will be processed. The decision-making process usually takes 3 weeks, or 5 working days if you select the priority service.
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Passport Collection or Delivery
Retrieve your passport with the visa either from the VAC or via a courier service. In the event of a visitor visa denial, you can reapply or pursue a Judicial Review. It’s important to note that appeals are restricted to applications involving human rights grounds. Common visit visa rejection reasons, includes doubtful intentions and large unexplained bank transactions.
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Prepare for Your UK Journey
With your visa secured, plan your UK travel and familiarize yourself with the terms of your visa.
Estimated Cost: 145 USD
Supply:
- Application form
- Valid Thailand Passport
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Payment for visa fee in USD
- Proof of UK accommodation
Tools:
- Internet access
- Thailand Passport
- Financial documents
Materials: Replicated documents, Confirmation printout of application, Envelope for documents' postal dispatch.
UK Visas for Thai Nationals – VFS Thailand Locations
| VFS Thailand Locations for UK Visas |
|---|
| Bangkok |
| – The Trendy Office Building, 28th Floor, Sukhumvit Soi 13, Wattana, Bangkok 10110. |
| – HMPO, The Trendy Office Building, 8th Floor, Sukhumvit Soi 13, Wattana, Bangkok 10110. |
| – Hyatt Regency Hotel, 1 Sukhumvit Soi 13, Khet Watthana, Bangkok 10110. |
| – Thanya Park, 735 Srinakarin Road, Suanluang, Bangkok 10250 (VAN behind Building B, 1st Floor). |
| – 888 Pradit Manutham Rd, Khlong Chan, Bang Kapi, Bangkok 10240 (VAN opposite Starbucks). |
| – VFS Thailand, G Floor, Door #10, 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khwaeng Khlong Ton Sai, Bangkok 10600. |
| – Siam Paragon Mall, M Floor, Scarlet Parking, 991 Rama 1 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330. |
| Chiang Mai |
| – Siripanich Building, 6th Floor, Huay Kaew Road, Mueng, Chiang Mai 50200. |
For more information, refer to the official visa application centre directory.
8. Required Documents for UK Visa for Thai Citizens
| Document Type / Requirement | Details and Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Documentation | |
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for the entire duration of your UK stay. |
| Application Form | Completed on the UK Visas and Immigration portal. |
| Proof of Accommodation | Details of your stay in the UK. |
| Financial Proof | Evidence of financial capability for the stay in the UK. |
| Travel Itinerary | Outline of your travel plans within the UK. |
| Proof of Ties to Thailand | Demonstrating intent to return to Thailand. |
| English Language Proficiency | Generally required via an accredited test, if applicable. |
| Documentation Based on Visa Type | |
| Work Visas | Employment offer and Certificate of Sponsorship required. |
| Study Visas | Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) necessary. |
| Family Visas | Proof of family relationships needed. |
| Tourist Visas | Additional details about the trip may be required. |
| For UK-Based Sponsors | |
| Letter of Invitation | Can strengthen the visa application, especially for family or work visas. |
| Sponsor’s Immigration Status | Documentation of the sponsor’s status in the UK. |
| Financial Documents | Evidence of the sponsor’s financial means. |
| Accommodation Proof | Details of accommodation arrangement in the UK. |
| Relationship Evidence | Necessary to establish the relationship with the sponsor. |
Note: For Thai citizens, sponsor documents are supplementary and particularly vital for certain visa types like family or work visas. However, fulfilling the primary visa requirements is essential for all UK visa categories.
9. FAQs: UK Visas for Thai Nationals 2024
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How much is UK Visa Fee in Thailand?
UK visa fee requirements in Thailand depends on the type of application. For instance, UK tourist, student, and spouse visa fees in Thailand are US$145, US$619, and US$2,332, respectively.
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How Long Does It Take to Process UK Visa in Thailand?
In 2024, non-settlement visit, study, and work visa application processing time in Thailand is usually 3-weeks. UK priority non-settlement visit, study, and work applications processing time from Thailand is normally 5 working days. The additional cost of UK priority (non-settlement) visa service from Thailand is US$632.
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How much is UK Super Priority Visa Fee in Thailand?
Super-priority service fee in Thailand is US$1,263 to process UK visa applications by next working day. However, the super priority service is not operational in Thailand.